What is the first step in court proceedings?

The first step in court proceedings typically involves the initiation of a legal action, which is most commonly accomplished by filing a complaint. When a complaint is filed, it formally begins the lawsuit and specifies the claims being raised. Following the filing, the court assigns a docket number to the case, which serves as a unique identifier throughout the proceedings. This docket number is crucial because it organizes the court’s schedule and tracks all documents filed and actions taken in the case.

While assigning a docket number is an essential administrative step in the process, it follows the initial act of filing the complaint. The filing establishes the existence of the case in the court system. Gathering evidence and setting court dates are processes that occur after the case has been officially initiated and the docket number assigned. Therefore, the correct answer emphasizes the necessity of filing a complaint as the starting point of court proceedings.